Breastfeeding helps from day one

09/05/05 Over half (55%) of people do not know that the benefits of breastfeeding start from day one, according to new statistics released by the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) to coincide with Breastfeeding Awareness Week (8-14 May 2005).

Research shows that breastfeeding for just one day makes a difference to a babies’ health by stabilising their blood sugars, protecting their gut and providing natural antibodies against disease.

Breastfeeding rates in the UK are among the lowest in Europe and the NCT is concerned that this lack of knowledge, coupled with a lack of visible support from those around them, may be putting mothers off starting breastfeeding.

The NCT is encouraging all new mums to take one day at a time and feel proud of breastfeeding their baby, whether they breastfeed for one day or one year, because every feed makes a positive difference for both baby and mum.

http://www.nct.org.uk/breastfeeding/nct_nbaw2005_press_release.pdf